One Size Does Not Fit All: Common Practices for Standards Collections and Management

Abstract

There are numerous studies in the engineering literature about standards, though practical information on standards collection management in libraries is somewhat limited. This study builds upon previous studies but with both a broader scope and more granularity. The purpose is to fill gaps and add to the existing literature on standards collections and use. The workflow for collection development and management practices for standards, like other special resources, are according to each institution's preferences, clientele, campus culture, budget, and needs. To deepen the understanding of standards management in libraries, this study uses a larger sample size than previous studies found in the literature, through a survey of 336 academic libraries in the United States at institutions offering four or more Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredited engineering programs. The survey includes questions in areas that have not been studied before, such as institutional size, the highest degree offered, collecting intensity, and demand levels. Findings confirm some results of previous studies, but also show some new and unexpected findings.